Understanding Lab Tests for Chronic Infections
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Chronic infections are persistent infections that last for extended periods, often months or years. These infections can be caused by various pathogens including bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that evade or overwhelm the immune system's initial response.
Recommended Test
IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence
This test measures levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies in your blood. Elevated IgG levels can indicate a chronic infection, as your immune system produces increased amounts of these antibodies in response to persistent pathogens. This test helps assess the overall immune response and can guide further investigation into specific infectious causes.
2907 reviews
The Role of Blood Testing in Chronic Infections
While diagnosing specific chronic infections often requires targeted pathogen-specific tests, blood testing plays a fundamental role in assessing the immune system's ongoing response to persistent infections. Immunoglobulin levels can provide valuable insights into how your body is responding to chronic infectious processes.
Understanding Your Results
Elevated immunoglobulin levels, particularly IgG, may suggest your immune system is actively fighting a chronic infection. However, these results should be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and may require additional specific testing to identify the exact infectious agent involved.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
